Deepdale Stadium

Football clubs united in support of White Ribbon Campaign

Neighbouring football clubs are showing a united front by joining Lancashire County Council in encouraging men to take a stand against violence towards women.

Preston North End, Accrington Stanley and Fleetwood Town have teamed up with the county council to support this year's White Ribbon Campaign.

The annual campaign calls on all organisations and individuals, particularly men and boys, to help end violence against women and girls by supporting one common cause.

Preston North End wrote about the White Ribbon Campaign in the match programme last Saturday against West Bromwich Albion. A White Ribbon advert also featured on the big screen at Deepdale Stadium and posters were put up around the stadium.

Accrington Stanley hosted an information desk for home fans during its Emirates FA Cup second round tie against Swindon Town, which saw Accrington go through on penalties.

Fleetwood will be writing about the campaign in the Trust's matchday programme for tonight's (Wednesday 4 December) match against Doncaster and plan to feature it on the big screen. An information desk will also be set up for fans to speak to public health experts about the campaign.

Cllr Peter Buckley, cabinet member for community and cultural services, said:

"For this year's White Ribbon Campaign, we are encouraging men to hold themselves accountable to women, and to each other, so we can affect positive behaviour change.

"All men can take an active role in helping women by calling out harmful attitudes and behaviour.

"We are pleased to have teamed up with Preston North End, Accrington Stanley and Fleetwood Town for this year's campaign.

"By coming together, we can help to transform the lives of women and girls affected by violence at the hands of men and boys."

The White Ribbon Campaign began on Monday, 25 November and will run until Tuesday, 10 December.

Information about the White Ribbon Campaign is being displayed in various libraries across the county, as well as Lancashire Archives and Clitheroe Castle Museum. Staff in our Family Hubs are also talking to families and young people about the issues highlighted in this year's campaign.

Domestic abuse is a major issue covered by the White Ribbon Campaign. For more information about local services, visit Lancashire County Council's domestic abuse webpage.

For more information about the White Ribbon campaign, including becoming ambassadors and champions please visit: www.whiteribbon.org.uk